Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Six months after its release, the Government’s Energy Roadmap is beginning to deliver on its promise of more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across Queensland. The plan aims to put downward pressure on electricity prices while strengthening the state’s energy system through continued investment in coal, gas, renewables and storage. It also focuses on unlocking new supply, including exploring gas potential in the Taroom Trough and progressing key infrastructure projects. Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said the roadmap was already achieving results. “The Roadmap is our plan to deliver new supply in the right places, at the right time, while keeping the lights on and putting downward pressure on prices,” Treasurer Janetzki said. “Power prices in Queensland are set to drop by about 10 per cent next financial year, in contrast with prices soaring under Labor by 19.9 per cent in a single year after the former Government failed to properly maintain power plants.” Since mid-2025, more than a gigawatt of new storage and renewable energy has become operational, with further developments underway. Market interest has also surged, with more than 50 parties engaging in proposals for new gas-fired generation projects. “There’s been overwhelming market interest with more than 50 parties engaged and over 10 gigawatts (GW) of prospective gas-fired generation identified across 17 projects, highlighting Queensland is open for business for new energy investment,” he said. The roadmap also includes initiatives such as the Investor Gateway and North West Energy Fund, designed to attract private investment and support long-term energy security across the state.
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Mackay Base Hospital has become one of three sites across Australia recruiting patients for a clinical trial investigating a potential new drug treatment aimed at improving recovery time following concussion. The clinical trial will assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to treat concussion and potentially support faster recovery for those affected. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Senior Staff Specialist (Emergency) and Principal Investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan said concussion was a very common condition which could happen to anyone, anywhere, but was more frequently associated with contact sports such as football. “It’s very common with sporting activities and the rate of presentations of head injuries increases during the rugby season,” Dr Sofola-Orukotan said. Trial sub-investigator and Mackay HHS senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola said concussion presentations in the ED could also be the result of falls and trips. “We see it very often in elderly patients,” Dr Akinola said. “That’s why a study like this is important because it gives us the opportunity to investigate whether a new treatment may improve a patient’s recovery outcomes.” “Generally, most patients with concussion recovered within a few days, but some experienced persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and concentration and memory issues,” he said. “We see people with post-concussive syndrome who have had ongoing symptoms for months and it's affecting their livelihood and day-to-day activities,” Dr Akinola said. There are currently no approved pharmaceutical treatments for concussion available in Australia with recovery focused on rest and symptom relief. This clinical trial would investigate the safety and efficacy of a new drug in the treatment of mild traumatic brain injury and trial participants would receive either the investigational drug or placebo alongside standard care. During his training in Nigeria, Dr Sofola-Orukotan had been involved in another clinical trial and collected data for a study into reducing bleeding in traumatic brain injuries. “This study is very similar to what I’ve done before so I see it as an opportunity to bring this type of research to the Mackay region to benefit our patients,” he said. Anyone interested in learning more about the clinical trial can contact the Clinical Trials Unit on 4951 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) trial sub-investigator and senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola, clinical trials nurse Alta Neethling and senior staff specialist (emergency) and principal investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan. Photo supplied
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A caesarean birth can be planned, unexpected, calm, chaotic, welcomed, or deeply emotional. For many women, it is all of those things at once. Yet while there is often plenty of discussion about the birth itself, far less attention is given to what comes next… recovery. April is C-Section Awareness Month, a timely reminder that caesarean birth is not the “easy option,” nor is recovery something women should simply be expected to push through in silence. A caesarean is major abdominal surgery, performed at the same time a woman becomes a mother or welcomes another child into her family. In the days and weeks afterwards, women are often navigating pain, fatigue, sleep deprivation, feeding demands, changing hormones, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn, all while healing from surgery. Many mums are surprised by how vulnerable they feel. Tasks that once seemed simple, like getting out of bed, laughing, coughing, lifting the baby capsule, or walking through the supermarket, can suddenly feel challenging. Yet because caring for a baby doesn’t pause for recovery, many women push on long before their body feels ready. What often goes unspoken is that healing continues well beyond the first six weeks. While the skin may appear healed relatively quickly, deeper layers of tissue continue to recover for months. The abdominal wall, scar tissue, core muscles, breathing patterns, posture, and pelvic floor can all be affected. Some women notice numbness around the scar, tightness, pulling sensations, back pain, weakness, bladder symptoms, or discomfort when returning to exercise. Others simply feel disconnected from their body, particularly their scar, and unsure where to begin. Scar care is another area many women are never taught about. Once the wound is fully healed and your medical team has cleared you, gentle scar massage can help improve mobility, reduce sensitivity, soften tightness, and support comfort as the tissues recover. Silicone therapy is also widely regarded as a gold-standard treatment for scar management, helping optimise scar healing and appearance. Early guidance can make a significant difference, particularly if the scar feels raised, tethered, numb, sensitive, or uncomfortable. These experiences are common, but they are not something women need to “just put up with.” One of the biggest myths around caesarean recovery is that if the baby is healthy and the scar looks fine, everything must be okay. But recovery is about far more than appearance. It is about how a woman feels in her body, how she moves, how she functions, and how confidently she returns to daily life. This is where support can make a meaningful difference. Pelvic health physiotherapy can help women recover strength, confidence, and comfort after a caesarean birth. That may include gentle core rehabilitation, scar mobility work, breathing retraining, guidance for safe return to exercise, lifting strategies, and addressing pelvic floor symptoms such as leaking, heaviness, or pain. Just as importantly, it can provide reassurance. Many women feel relief simply hearing that what they are experiencing is valid, understandable, and treatable. As a women’s health physiotherapist, I often meet mothers months or even years after their caesarean who say, “I thought this was just how it would be now.” But it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve had a caesarean birth, recently or years ago, and something still doesn’t feel quite right, a check-in with a qualified health professional can be a helpful next step. Your body has been through something significant, and it deserves care. This C-Section Awareness Month, let’s broaden the conversation. A caesarean birth is still birth. Recovery still matters. And mothers deserve more than being told to bounce back. Because healing well isn’t a luxury after birth — it should be the expectation. Text Box 2, Textbox Women's Health Physio Mackay admin@whphysiomackay.com.au 0476 616 324
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A duck walks into a newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: No, we don’t have corn. There’s a grain store a few doors up the street and they sell corn.” The duck says “okay, thanks” and waddles out. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: “No, as I said yesterday, we don’t sell corn but the grain shop up the road sells it.” The ducks says “okay, thanks” and leaves the shop. The next day the duck waddles into the newsagency and approaches the newsagent and says: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent is now sick of it. Exasperated, he says: “Look, mate we don’t sell corn! We are a newsagency! We sell cards and newspapers and lotto tickets. We don’t bloody well sell corn! If you want corn, you go to the grain store up the street and get your corn there.” The next day the duck walks into the newsagency. The newsagent sees him and thinks to himself, “right, if this friggin’ duck asks for corn again, I am gonna go off”. The duck waddles up to him and says: “Have you got any corn?” The newsagent is furious and has had enough. Now he’s shouting: “LISTEN MATE. WE DON’T SELL CORN! I’M SICK OF THIS. IF YOU COME INTO MY SHOP AGAIN AND ASK FOR CORN I AM GONNA GRAB YOUR HEAD AND NAIL YOUR STUPID DUCK BILL TO THIS COUNTER! The ducks says, “okay, thanks” and leaves. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, goes up to the counter and says to the newsagent: “Have you got any nails?” The newsagent shouts in frustration: “No I don’t have any nails!!” The duck says: “Okay, do you have any corn?” Now that is one very annoying duck. In life, I try not to be as annoying as that duck. But there are some annoying things I do that I can’t eradicate. One of them is consistently turning up to photo shoots for a property I am listing. I use the same photographer for every listing and she is very good and knows what is required. Yet I turn up. Not on a two-bedroom unit I do for most houses because, even though I know the photographer is very good, I still need to tell her about the importance of certain features. I need to stress how important the shed is, how vital it is that we show how wide the side access is for buyers needing access for a boat or a caravan. Even if there isn’t a shed, I have to say something. “Listen I know there’s no shed but there is really good side access and look at all the space in the yard to put a shed. If you take a photo from over in that corner of the yard I reckon people will be able to see the side access and also the space that’s available for the shed in one picture.” It must be very annoying for a highly professional photographer who has done it thousands of times. It’s the same inside the house. I say things like: “If you take a photo from this angle in the family room, people will be able to see the lounge, dining and part of the kitchen and get a feel for the space.” Annoying. I know most agents consider attending the photo shoots a waste of time and maybe they’re right. For me, we only get one chance at a first impression and that’s the photos so let’s make sure they’re right. Even though the poor photographer has to turn up to a property and see that stupid duck waiting.
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Although he has just completed Year 12, Leo Gorrion already has an impressive resume of stage production and design.
From set painting to lighting and sound for productions by both his school and the Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Leo is well on the way to a remarkable career.
Leo was named as this year’s recipient of the MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary, which has tripled this year to $3000 thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the MECC.
The Mackay State High School graduate hopes to extend his passion for production design at the University of Melbourne in 2025, where he plans to study a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production).
This year, council has offered $6000 in bursaries for talented visual and performing arts students from our region.
The Jack Sturgeon Bursary was one of two bursaries presented by Mayor Greg Williamson at a special morning tea last week.
Mayor Williamson said Leo’s achievements in stage production at such a young age were inspirational.
“Leo has had his sights fixed on this dream for a number of years, and council is pleased to be able to support him to achieve his dream,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Pursuing an artistic passion as a career is far from easy and tertiary education is becoming more expensive every year,” Mayor Williamson said.
“You have to take your hat off to a young person who has the courage to back themselves and their creative talents by undertaking a tertiary degree, especially away from home,” he said.
The $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient for 2024 is Visual Art student Ebony Wright.
Ebony is studying a Bachelor of Visual Art at Queensland College of Art, Griffith University, in Brisbane.
She is a Mackay local and attended Fitzgerald State School and Mackay North State High School.
“Ebony has been exploring collage as a new medium throughout her first year of art school,” Mayor Williamson said.
“She is doing this through prints, sculptures and painting and has found inspiration in the often-harsh truths we must face in the world and the beauty and resistance of nature,” he said.
“We are very pleased that Ebony hopes to return to Mackay after she graduates and encourage and establish a stronger community of emerging artists,” he said.
Jack Sturgeon Bursary recipient Leo Gorrion, second from left, and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient Ebony Wright, second from right, with Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, Executive Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk, far left, and Artspace Mackay Gallery Director Tracey Heathwood, far right
Hi Everyone,
For the past few days, I have had my seven-year-old son on ‘work experience’ with me.
To make him feel special, I ordered him a fully branded work shirt and it was a moment of great pride when he first put the shirt over his head and stood in front of the mirror smiling.
Over the next two days we took the long drive up to the Hinchinbrook region where we inducted a new staff member, visited local businesses, took photos, attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting and even distributed the newspaper!
It was an action-packed and very hot few days that culminated in a purple sky thunderstorm as we drive back down the coast on Tuesday afternoon.
I was impressed with how well my son behaved, especially with the extra-long days, and I think he now has a new respect for the big busy schedule we all have at the newspaper.
This is the last issue of the newspaper for 2024 and on behalf of the entire team I would like to say a big thank you to all our readers for picking up the paper and connecting through the pages each week.
A special thank you also goes to our incredible advertisers, without all of you the community would not have a local printed paper so thank you all so much for choosing to spend your advertising dollars with us.
This has been an incredible year for our little publishing house.
Not only have we launched another new newspaper and hosted the Premier at our recent newspaper launch – we have also loved every minute of being the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland 2024.
Every paper we produced is packed with love, from the journos writing the stories to the sales team working closely with local businesses and the production team creating beautiful designs.
Each person in this team gives 100% all year and they deeply care about bringing the community an amazing paper each week, thanks for being a part of that.
Merry Christmas to you all and best wishes for a wonderful New Year ahead.
Rach
Haven’t you heard? Christmas cheer has become more contagious than ever! Santa Barry has become a friendly face across the Whitsundays, sporting the fashionable gear of the jolly man himself and working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the picturesque region pristine throughout the busting holiday season.
The Whitsunday Regional Council’s dedicated outdoor teams have been working their magic, keeping roads, drainage and waste systems, parks, gardens, and water services spick and span to ensure visitors and locals alike can indulge in all the region has to offer.
With the holidays well and truly in full swing, crews will be working all the way through the Christmas and New Year period, maintaining footpaths, and ensuring all parks, barbeque areas, playgrounds and everything in between are in tip top shape!
Santa Barry has a very important mission of his own this Christmas! In operating the footpath sweeper with the same precision Santa Claus himself pilots his spectacular sleigh, Santa Barry has been dressed from top to toe in a full Santa suit as he runs his early morning rounds through both Proserpine and Airlie Beach’s main streets.
Make sure you send a wave Santa Barry’s way if you spot him on his route!
In this year's highly anticipated Christmas Lights Competition, organised by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the community was treated to a dazzling array of spectacular displays that truly captured the holiday spirit.
Among the standout entries was the brilliant light display on Walker Street in Collinsville, which was crowned the winner of the coveted ‘Best Street’ award. This extraordinary display featured a mesmerising interactive light show that captivated both children and adults alike, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and wonder. Families flocked to the street to experience the magic, with the synchronised lights and festive decorations sparking smiles and holiday cheer all around.
The true shining stars of this year’s Christmas Lights Competition, however, were undoubtedly Barry and Sandra Haran, whose spectacular display in Mahogany Place in Cannon Valley captured the hearts of everyone who passed by.
Their home in, a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, inflatable decorations, and festive charm, stood out as a true highlight of the competition.
From a towering, cheerful blow-up Santa to rows of sparkling fairy lights and candy cane accents, their display was magical.
The house left all visitors in awe, spreading holiday cheer to all who were lucky enough to experience it. Barry and Sandra’s dedication to creating such a vibrant, joyful atmosphere made them well-deserving winners, and their home became a beacon of Christmas spirit in the community.
Barry shared that the journey to their stunning light display begins as early as November each year. With meticulous planning and an eye for detail, they work tirelessly to create the breathtaking result now on full display at their home. The Harans have become well-known in the neighborhood for their commitment to spreading holiday joy, and Barry mentioned how he encourages his neighbors to join in the festive spirit.
Mayor Ry Collins presented Barry with his vouchers which were kindly provided by Sealink Whitsundays and Lake Proserpine Glamping and congratulated the couple on their fantastic efforts in bringing the Christmas spectacular to life.
Whitsunday Regional Council took to Facebook to thank all those who took part in the competition:
“A huge thank you to everyone who has decorated their homes and streets, bringing festive sparkle to the Whitsunday region.”
Although the competition has officially ended, you can still enjoy the stunning light displays throughout the area. A convenient map highlighting all the display locations, can be easily accessed through the council's website. Don't miss the chance to experience these captivating installations before they’re gone:
bit.ly/4giseRy
Mayor Ry Collins presenting winner of the Christmas Lights Competition Barry Haran with his prize. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
At the Ordinary monthly meeting in Proserpine last week Council adopted a new Flying Fox Policy and Management Plan and Collinsville Roost Management Plan to address the challenges posed by Flying Fox roosts in the region.
Mayor Ry Collins expressed his thoughts on the new policy:
“This new policy represents a significant step forward and ensures that we balance the needs of our community with our environmental responsibilities.”
Flying Foxes are a protected species under Queensland legislation, and wildlife management is primarily a responsibility of the state governments and landholders.
The new policy, however, includes three key amendments to clarify council's role within the management of flying foxes.
Firstly, for roosts on council-controlled land, council will assess and undertake appropriate management actions based on the cost, likelihood of success and impact on the community.
Secondly, for roosts on private land, council encourage landholders to take approved actions to manage the issue while offering coordination and potential funding support within their allocated budget.
Lastly, for roosts outside of urban areas, these will be referred to the state government as council states that they do not have any jurisdiction in these cases.
So far, management of the flying fox issue has cost over $416,000 since 2021, which council states highlights the scale of this challenge.
Mayor Ry Collins, claims that this is a complex issue with no one size fits all solution however the adoption of the new council flying fox policy “marks a clear pathway forward – one that reflects a more strategic and responsive approach, aligning with both community expectations and state guidelines.”
What began as a simple conversation with two homeless men in a park sparked the creation of a regular Thursday lunch gathering at the Lagoon.
Barb Hill, an organiser with Drug Arm Mackay, approached the men and asked how she could assist them. Their response was straightforward, they needed food. This led Barb to develop the idea of providing regular meals, which has since expanded to weekly gatherings in both Airlie Beach and Bowen.
While the meet-ups are a great way for individuals to have food and socialise, they also offer a support network, where people can be connected with essential services.
Barb expressed that everyone is welcome:
“Homelessness looks different to different people.
“It doesn't just mean someone sleeping in the garden, it can be in their cars, or other places.
“What we do is bring that connection and non-judgment.”
Alongside organising social gatherings, Barb also has nonperishable food items, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, clothes and personal hygiene products, that she brings along for anyone who may need it.
“We operate on donation for the outreach, It's not funded at all.
“The Neighbourhood Centre also helps out much as they can.”
Alongside a fantastic Christmas spread, there was even a special appearance from Santa, who brought along a fruit platter for the event.
“It's planting the seed of kindness and compassion, and in turn, helps them in the long term,” Barb explained.
Santa delivering the fruit platter
The wonderful volunteers
Everyone enjoying their Christmas lunch
The delicious Christmas spread
The Proserpine Mill has officially concluded its 2024 crushing season due to wet field conditions and an inadequate cane supply, according to Wilmar Sugar Proserpine Cane Supply Manager Peter Luke.
The mill ceased processing operations last Thursday, 12th of December, following widespread rain that significantly hindered harvesting efforts. A storm on Monday night compounded the situation, delivering 40mm to 120mm of rain across the region and further delaying any chance of field recovery.
Discussions with harvesting sector representatives and growers confirmed that cane supply was unlikely to improve enough to justify continued operations and after consulting grower representatives earlier this week, the decision was made to officially shut down the mill for the season.
Despite the challenges, the Proserpine Mill managed to process approximately 1.67 million tonnes of cane, achieving 97 per cent of the total forecast crop for the year with Peter thanking growers and harvesting contractors for their dedication and hard work throughout the season.
“I’d like to thank all growers and harvesting contractors for their efforts throughout the 2024 season and extend our best wishes for a safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends,” shared Pete.
Looking ahead, the mill will now focus on preparing for the 2025 season, with hopes for better weather and harvesting conditions in the year ahead.
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassador Program is dedicated to ensuring that every passenger has a warm and welcoming experience in the Whitsundays. From offering helpful tips on local activities to assisting with the coordination of cruise ship markets, each ambassador plays a unique and vital role in creating a memorable visit for all guests.
Last Wednesday, the ambassadors gathered to celebrate Christmas and reflect on a successful year for tourism in the region.
Lyn Blanche Woodham, Leader of the Whitsunday Cruise Ship Ambassador Program, expressed her appreciation for the volunteers' hard work and commitment over the past year:
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Cruise Ambassadors for their dedication and time. I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break over Christmas."
According to the 2023-24 economic impact report on cruising in Australia by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), Airlie Beach has emerged as a key contributor to the state's overall performance. The region saw an impressive 144,959 passenger days, generating direct expenditure of $57.39 million, underscoring its growing importance as a cruise destination.
The Cruise Ambassadors celebrating christmas in Style
This week, the Proserpine Community Centre had the honor of welcoming a very special VIP guest all the way from the North Pole—none other than Santa Claus himself! But this wasn't just any ordinary visit. Santa made a grand and unforgettable entrance, arriving in style on a stunning Harley Davidson motorcycle, much to the excitement and delight of the gathered crowd.
Accompanied by his acrobatically talented elf, who added a touch of flair and fun to the festivities, Santa spent the afternoon spreading joy and holiday cheer. He handed out an abundance of treats and goodies, and posed for countless family photos in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
But Santa's visit wasn’t just about spreading festive cheer in Proserpine. Santa had an important mission to accomplish, one that spanned the entire Whitsundays. His task? To make sure he visited every child in the region and spread some Christmas magic. According to the Proserpine Community Centre, Mr. Claus' mission was a resounding success!
With his mission complete, Santa Claus will now be heading back to the North Pole to finalize his preparations ahead of next Wednesday’s big day. The elves are no doubt busy wrapping up the final touches at the North Pole, as Santa gets ready for his annual global journey to deliver presents and holiday cheer to children all around the world.
Santa on his Harley at the Proserpine Community Centre.
As I wrap up my second month at Tourism Whitsundays, I’m really settling in and enjoying the chance to connect with our amazing Whitsundays community. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and as we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share an update on tourism in our region.
This week, we received the National and International Visitor Survey update for the year ending September 2024, and the results are promising. Domestic tourism continues to grow, with visitor spend hitting $1.4 billion—up 12% from last year. We also saw a 2% increase in domestic visitors, reaching 742,000. The average visitor stayed longer too, with total nights rising 6% to 3.3 million, and average spend per person climbing by nearly 10% to $1,927.
On the international front, recovery is strong and in line with Queensland and Australia but still has a little way to go. Visitor numbers have hit 188,000, which is 85% of pre-pandemic levels and holiday visitor nights are up to 1.1 million, a recovery of 80%. Visitors from the UK and USA have seen significant growth, with numbers from the UK increasing by 30% and USA visitors increasing by 18%.
It’s clear that The Whitsundays continues to shine, and I’m excited to see what 2025 holds. Wishing everyone in The Whitsundays a Merry Christmas and a safe, relaxing holiday season!
Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays
Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays.
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Recently, Jade visited Azure Sea Resort to speak with managers Stuart and Nicole Morris. Located in Airlie Beach, this resort offers stunning 180-degree views over the Coral Sea towards Hayman Island. Azure Sea Resort features 30 exquisitely appointed, fully equipped apartments accessible via lift. Guests can relax in tropical gardens or enjoy a spectacular infinity-edge waterfall swimming pool that flows into a second pool. Conveniently, the resort is only an 8-minute walk from the beach and shopping areas.
Stuart and Nicole were honoured as the 'Resident Managers of the Year' for 2024 at the ARAMA Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects their outstanding management of a premier Australian holiday destination. Since taking over the resort in December 2022, they completed a refurbishment of the 255,000-litre pools and spa in just six weeks—well ahead of the initially estimated three months.
While managing the renovations and coordinating with three Body Corporates, they also launched a successful marketing campaign that significantly improved investor returns. Since their arrival, the letting pool has increased by 25%. This award highlights the importance of delivering excellent service in property management and exemplifies how dedicated efforts can enhance the overall experience for both owners and guests at the resort.
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays
Caption: Azure Sea Resort
Having recently taken over the iconic Kevla Espresso Bar in Bowen, new owner Brad Williams is enthusiastic about the café’s future. With years of experience in hospitality, Brad has long dreamed of running his own business, a vision he has now brought to life after transitioning from the coal mines to the café industry.
Kevla Espresso Bar offers a delightful selection of coffees, mouthwatering paninis, and a variety of healthy options, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away on Murroona Street, just behind the chiropractor's office and nestled within the gym, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Brad shared that the decision to take over Kevla Espresso Bar was driven by his passion for the hospitality sector and his desire to create a welcoming space for the community.
When asked what sets Kevla Espresso Bar apart from other local eateries, Brad highlighted the café’s exceptional coffee.
“One of our main selling points is our coffee,” he said. “We source our beans from Kai Coffee on the Sunshine Coast, which allows us to serve a smooth, rich cup every time.”
Along with the exceptional coffees, the outstanding service and the dedication of manager Abbie Paul truly elevate the entire experience at Kevla Espresso Bar:
“Abbie is a young local from Bowen, and she runs the place so well!” Brad added.
The business is deeply involved in the community, organizing events such as toy runs and lolly drops in collaboration with local firefighters and paramedics. In addition, they host suicide prevention initiatives and, just this week, invited families to a Christmas cookie and craft workshop.
Looking ahead, Brad envisions taking Kevla Espresso Bar to new heights by diversifying its offerings and creating a dynamic space for both the local community and corporate clients.
One of his key goals is to position the Espresso Bar as a prime venue for corporate events, providing a relaxed yet professional atmosphere for meetings, workshops, and team-building sessions.
Additionally, Brad is excited to expand the café's menu to include convenient picnic and takeaway options, allowing customers to enjoy Kevla Espresso Bar’s delicious food and drinks wherever they go.
The cafe's outdoor space is also something Brad is eager to maximize. With plans to host live music on Sundays. To make the space even more family-friendly, Brad is exploring the idea of adding an outdoor play area for children, ensuring that families can enjoy a leisurely meal while their little ones have fun in a safe and engaging environment.
If you are in Bowen head on over and say hi and enjoy the delicious offerings of Kevla Espresso Bar.
Head over to Kevla Espresso Bar to try one of their locally loved coffees.
A hidden gem in Bowen.
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) is committed to supporting initiatives by the Whitsunday Regional Council that aim to strengthen our community, economy, and long-term liveability.
Recently, the Chamber invited its members to participate in the Council's consultation process for the proposed Corporate Plan 2025-2030. This Plan will serve as the Council's primary strategic document, guiding all future strategies, actions, and decisions for the region. The consultation sought feedback on key elements such as the proposed vision, mission, values, and focus areas related to the economy, community, environment, governance, and infrastructure.
The Chamber's submission to the consultation consolidates the views and insights of its members, reflecting the business community's perspective.
“Across Australia, communities are increasingly looking to local Councils for strong leadership, bold visions, and decisive actions. The Whitsundays is no different,” said Allan Milostic, President of the WCCI.
“The Chamber expects the Corporate Plan to incorporate community feedback, clearly outline priorities, set achievable timelines, and include transparent reporting on progress and accountability.”
Key Insights from the Chamber's Submission:
• Community Connectivity: Uniting the region’s diverse districts—each with its own history, needs, and future possibilities—requires strong leadership and a clear, shared vision.
• Secure Funding and Deliver: Prioritise efforts to secure state and federal funding for critical infrastructure, including roads, major projects, health, education, and land-based tourism.
• Future-Proofing Infrastructure: A focus on long-term sustainability is needed to upgrade essential infrastructure such as roads, water, utilities, and waste management systems.
• Transparency in Decision-Making and Procurement: The Chamber calls for greater openness around Council decisions and procurement processes to ensure investment in regional businesses and local economic growth.
“Effective public consultation can play a key role in shaping the Council's plans by reflecting the community's priorities and encouraging innovative ideas. The Chamber looks forward to participating in more meaningful engagement processes that actively address community concerns and incorporate local ideas into Council decisions,” said Chamber President, Allan Milostic.
The Chamber’s submission to the Council’s consultation is available on their website.
The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry Committee. L-R: Emily Harvey (Filby’s Motors), Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive), President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach), Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services), Asher Telford (Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association and SeaLink), Treasurer Fiona Erquiaga (Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting). Absent: Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication)
Whitsunday Regional Council Customer Service Centres and Libraries will close for the Christmas/New Year period at 4:45pm on Friday, 20 December, and will re-open at 8:15am on Monday, 6 January 2025.
For emergencies during this time, residents can contact our after-hours team on 1300 972 753.
Please note, our aquatic and waste facilities will also have adjusted operating hours. For full details, visit our website.
Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season!
As we head into the Christmas-New Year holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my first nine months serving as Mayor since being elected in April.
To date it has been a journey filled with many challenges, some achievements, and plenty of invaluable lessons.
Stepping into the position of Mayor has been both an honour and a great responsibility. It has been a year of listening, learning, and laying the foundation for an exciting future.
From day one, my focus has been on hearing the concerns of our community and the numerous key stakeholder groups to understand the issues that impact of region.
From upgrading our key infrastructure to enhancing community services and attracting investment that will create more jobs for locals, every step forward has been possible because of your support and collaboration.
Our Whitsundays is more than just a place we live; it’s a vibrant and dynamic community with endless potential. As we look to the year ahead, there are exciting projects and initiatives on the horizon—opportunities that should create growth, prosperity, and greater connection for all.
As we celebrate this festive season, let us take the time to appreciate the spirit of togetherness that defines the Whitsundays. Let’s support our local businesses, embrace the beauty of our region, and share kindness with our neighbours.
From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and safe Christmas filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. Here’s to a bright and prosperous 2025 ahead.
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